Strijk shines in Falcons triumph

Strijk shines in Falcons triumph - The West Australian

West Perth held on during a tough last quarter to end Claremont’s good recent record at the Showground and stay within touch of the top four.

In a game marred by terrible skills from both teams, with each of them totalling nearly 400 disposals, the Falcons were more efficient at critical times in winning 10.14 (74) to 9.11 (65).

But the Tigers gave them a great scare by coming from 31 points behind at the last change to cut the deficit to nine as veteran Mark Seaby twice converted strong marks inside the forward 50.

Andrew Strijk was the standout performer in the dour contest with his sublime kicking ability allowing him to provide West Perth with great rebound from defence.

The former West Coast player had 26 disposals, including 20 kicks that went directly to a team-mate, while his 11 marks at half-back were instrumental in keeping the Tigers at bay.

It was Claremont’s first loss at their temporary home ground this season and, despite playing just a handful of matches there in nearly a century, their first defeat there since their inaugural season in 1926.

Defenders held sway for most the game with Claremont tyro Hugo Breakey keeping Marc Crisp touchless in the first half before getting the better of Anthony Tsalikis.